Day 28

His arrest and crucifixion...

Mark 14:53-65 NIV84

They took Jesus to the high priest, and all the chief priests, elders and teachers of the law came together. Peter followed him at a distance, right into the courtyard of the high priest. There he sat with the guards and warmed himself at the fire.

The chief priests and the whole Sanhedrin were looking for evidence against Jesus so that they could put him to death, but they did not find any. Many testified falsely against him, but their statements did not agree.

Then some stood up and gave this false testimony against him: "We heard him say, 'I will destroy this man-made temple and in three days will build another, not made by man.'" Yet even then their testimony did not agree.

Then the high priest stood up before them and asked Jesus, "Are you not going to answer? What is this testimony that these men are bringing against you?" But Jesus remained silent and gave no answer.

Again the high priest asked him, "Are you the Christ, the Son of the Blessed One?" 

"I am," said Jesus. "And you will see the Son of Man sitting at the right hand of the Mighty One and coming on the clouds of heaven."

The high priest tore his clothes. "Why do we need any more witnesses?" he asked. "You have heard the blasphemy. What do you think?"

They condemned him as worthy of death. Then some began to spit at him; they blindfolded him, struck him with their fists, and said, "Prophesy!" And the guards took him and beat him.

Where did they take Jesus? Why?

What was the nature of the testimony? Was it successful? How did Jesus respond?

What did the high priest finally ask Him? What was the result?

The majority of the Jewish leaders had God in a box and were more interested in their own agendas than God's. Pride and arrogance kept them from recognizing the Christ --- they boldly mocked and beat Him. What about you? Do you have preconceived ideas and beliefs about who God is and how He relates to people? Are you open to seeing God in a new way? Or do you condemn any revelation of God that doesn't fit your expectation?

Father God, You are infinite in all Your qualities and characteristics. You are free to reveal Yourself however You desire. Open my eyes and heart to Your many different facets. I do not want to be found mocking or denying You in any way.

The ancient steps that led to the house of the high priest in Jerusalem.
Taken by Peetie Edwards.